The Arewa Cohesion Initiative (ACI) has called on Nigerians to reject tobacco use and adopt healthier lifestyles as part of activities marking World No Tobacco Day 2026.
In a statement issued to commemorate the global observance, the organisation highlighted the importance of renewed public awareness and collective action in reducing tobacco consumption and protecting public health.
The Director General of ACI, Dr. Abdullahi Idris, noted that tobacco use remains a major global public health challenge, responsible for a significant number of preventable deaths each year. He said the habit is linked to serious health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses, while also contributing to environmental and social problems.
Dr. Idris warned that both active smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke continue to pose serious risks to individuals and communities.
He urged governments, health authorities, civil society organisations, traditional leaders, religious institutions, and the media to intensify efforts aimed at discouraging tobacco use, particularly among young people who are highly vulnerable to addiction.
According to him, sustained public education and strong policy enforcement are essential in reducing tobacco consumption and promoting healthier societies.
“World No Tobacco Day is a reminder that protecting public health requires collective responsibility. We must continue to educate communities on the dangers of tobacco use and support initiatives that encourage healthier living,” he said.
The ACI Director General further stated that reducing tobacco use would not only improve health outcomes but also support broader goals such as poverty reduction, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
He encouraged citizens to make informed decisions, reject tobacco consumption, and actively promote healthier environments within their communities.
ACI also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting awareness campaigns and programmes aimed at improving public health and social well-being across Northern Nigeria and the country at large.
